STORY: A possible takeover of British airline easyJet took another twist on Thursday (June 4).

A report said U.S. investment firm Castlelake is looking at MSC as a partner in a consortium for a potential bid.

The update came from Italian daily Corriere della Sera.

MSC is a Swiss-based global group which covers container shipping, cruise ships, logistics and more.

Thursday's report comes a week after Castlelake said it was in the early stages of considering a takeover of easyJet.

Although no formal approach had been made.

British takeover rules give the firm until June 26 to make a firm bid or walk away.

EasyJet had called Castlelake's timing 'highly opportunistic'. 

Analyst argue the carrier's low valuation, slots at key airports and stable fleet make it a prime takeover target.

Corriere reported Castlelake hopes to partner with MSC to ensure its bid complies with EU ownership rules.

MSC and easyJet wouldn't comment on the report.

Castlelake didn't immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

EasyJet shares have gained about 15% since Castlelake's interest was revealed.

They were up again just over 2% in early trade on Thursday.